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Description
Armeria Maritima Bloodstone, also known as Sea Thrift Bloodstone, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the family Plumbaginaceae. This plant is native to the coastal regions of Europe, including the British Isles. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive pink flowers that bloom in the spring and summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Plumbaginaceae |
| Genus | Armeria |
Appearance
Armeria Maritima Bloodstone is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 6-8 inches and a spread of 10-12 inches. It has evergreen, grass-like leaves that form a neat, compact rosette. In the spring and summer months, it produces pink, ball-shaped flowers that sit atop slender stems. The flowers bloom in clusters and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Armeria Maritima Bloodstone is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water it deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If your soil is heavy, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: Armeria Maritima Bloodstone prefers full sun to partial shade. It will not thrive in full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Armeria Maritima Bloodstone is generally a healthy plant with few pest and disease problems. However, it may be susceptible to the following:
- Slugs and Snails: These pests may feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant. Use a slug and snail bait to control them.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To prevent root rot, make sure your soil is well-draining and do not overwater your plant.
Habitat
Armeria Maritima Bloodstone is native to coastal regions of Europe, including the British Isles. It grows in sandy soil in coastal meadows, heaths, and cliffs. In cultivation, it is often used as a groundcover or in rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Armeria Maritima Bloodstone deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Armeria Maritima Bloodstone tolerate drought?
A: Yes, this plant is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Can Armeria Maritima Bloodstone be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has drainage holes.
Q: How often should Armeria Maritima Bloodstone be divided?
A: This plant does not need to be divided often. It can be divided every 3-4 years to maintain its vigor.
Related Plants
- Armeria Maritima Alba
- Armeria Maritima Splendens
- Armeria Pseudarmeria Ballerina
- Armeria Alliacea
References
- “Armeria Maritima Bloodstone.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276336.
- “Armeria Maritima Bloodstone.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/6089/Armeria-maritima-Bloodstone/Details.
- “Armeria Maritima Bloodstone.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/thrift-plant/growing-sea-thrift.htm.
